The oil pressure sending unit relays the oil pressure in the engine to the instrument cluster. The unit will illuminate the
OIL PRESSURE
light if the oil pressure drops below 2psi (13 pa). The sending unit is located on the side of the intake camshaft housing on the 2.4L engine. The sending unit for the 3.1L engine is located above the starter on the front side of engine.

TESTING

To test the normally closed oil lamp circuit, disengage the locking connector and measure the resistance between the switch terminal (terminal for the wire to the warning lamp) and the metal housing. The ohmmeter should read 0 ohms.

To test the sending unit, measure the resistance between the sending unit terminal and the metal housing. The ohmmeter should read an open circuit (infinite resistance).

Start the engine.

Once again, test each terminal against the metal housing:

The oil switch terminal-to-housing circuit should read an open circuit if there is oil pressure present.

The sending unit-to-housing circuit should read between 15-80 ohms, depending on the engine speed, oil temperature and oil viscosity.

To test the oil pressure sender only, rev the engine and watch the ohms reading, which should fluctuate slightly (within the range of 15-80 ohms) as rpm increases.

If the above results were not obtained, replace the sending unit/switch with a new one.

REMOVAL & INSTALLATION

Disconnect the negative battery cable.

If necessary, remove the air cleaner assembly.

If necessary, raise and safely support the vehicle, place a drain pan under the vehicle and remove the oil filter.

Detach the sending unit electrical connector.

Fig. Oil pressure sending unit/switch location-2.4L engine shown

Fig. Carefully lift the catch off of the harness and pull it away from the oil pressure sending unit/switch-3.1L engine shown

Remove the sensor.

To install:

Coat the first two or three threads of the sending unit with sealer. Install the sending unit and tighten until snug. Engage the electrical lead.

If removed, install the oil filter.

Carefully lower the vehicle, if raised.

Connect the negative battery cable and fill the engine with oil as necessary.